Class is in session at Starfleet Academy—and we've got thoughts.

This week, we're joined by friends of the pod Leigh Ellen and Alex to dig into the characters shaping Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, from the power players at the top to the cadets just beginning their Starfleet journeys. We break down leadership styles, messy brilliance, and the kind of character choices that tell you exactly what kind of future this show is building.

On the command side, we unpack Chancellor Capt. Nahla Ake, F. Adm. Charles Vance, Lt. Cdr. Lura Thok, Cdr. Jett Reno, and the ever-iconic Doctor.

Then it's on to the cadets: Caleb Mir, Darem Reymi, Jay-Den Kraag, S.A.M., and Tarima Sadal. We talk chemistry, queer coding, and which of these future officers already feel destined for greatness… or chaos.

It's a character-forward conversation full of speculation, affection, and a little side-eye—because if Starfleet Academy is about shaping the future, these people are the ones to watch. 🖖✨

Support Us: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen

Alex's Shop: https://deosildesigns.com/

Col. Bree Fram for Congress: https://teambree.com/

David Gerrold's Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/david-gerrolds-health-and-leukemia-fundraiser

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Jodi Pickens from the Clonestar Podcast for a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about storytelling, connection, and the power of asking the right questions.

As a co-host with a deep background in storytelling, Jodi brings warmth, curiosity, and emotional intelligence to every exchange. She has a rare ability to put guests at ease while gently steering conversations toward what truly matters—uncovering the human stories behind the work.

Find Jodi at: https://bsky.app/profile/jodipickens.bsky.social

Support us at: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen

We're thrilled to welcome Madot from Star Trek Khan: Zuri Washington!

We discuss Zuri's introduction to the Star Trek universe, her career and lived experience as a Black woman working in Broadway and Hollywood today. Zuri speaks candidly about navigating the industry, finding her voice across stage and screen, and the realities—both challenging and rewarding—of building a sustainable, creative career in entertainment. We discuss representation, opportunity, resilience, and the importance of telling stories that reflect who we are and where we've been.

This is an honest, inspiring conversation about artistry, identity, and perseverance—one that will resonate with creatives, Trek fans, and anyone interested in how the industry is evolving behind the scenes.

More Info: https://zuriwashington.com/

Support us: https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen

As another year in the Final Frontier comes to a close, we're taking a moment to reflect on Star Trek in 2025—the highs, the surprises, the debates, and the moments that kept the fandom buzzing. From new episodes and familiar faces to the ever-evolving state of Trek on streaming, we look back at what worked, what challenged us, and what it all means for the franchise we love.

Then, we set our phasers to the future and talk about what's coming in 2026. What do we know, what are we hoping for, and what questions are still out there? Join us for a thoughtful, fun, and very Trek-loving conversation about where we've been—and where Star Trek boldly goes next.

If you enjoy the show and want to help keep us boldly going, please consider supporting us on Ko-fi. Every contribution helps us continue creating thoughtful, independent Star Trek content for the community. 🖖 https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen

The Star Trek movie journey continues with one of the franchise's most talked-about entries: Star Trek: First Contact. For Episode 126, we're joined by special guest host Sonyl Nagale as Lanita watches the film for the very first time, continuing her path through the Star Trek movies as a true film virgin.

With the Borg threatening humanity, Picard confronting his trauma, and the unforgettable Borg Queen making her chilling debut, we dig into what makes this film stand out—from its darker tone and action-forward energy to the character moments that still resonate decades later. Seeing it all through Lanita's fresh perspective sparks new conversations and a few surprises along the way.

Does First Contact win her over, or is resistance still futile? Join us as we engage with one of Star Trek's most iconic cinematic chapters.

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This week, Mike, Lanita, and Damian take a closer look at the hair of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3 — from Pike's gravity-defying pompadour to Chapel's sleek style and Una's impeccable updo. Joining the crew is stylist and Trek fan Anna Rozay, who helps unpack how the show's hairstyles reflect personality, rank, and the evolving aesthetic of the Enterprise.

✨ It's science fiction, style, and Starfleet swagger — all in one episode!

https://www.instagram.com/anna_rozay

Support us at https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen

Halloween special! Mike, Lanita, and Damian beam into the history of Star Trek Halloween costumes—from the classic Ben Cooper era to the screen-accurate cosplay of today. Along the way, they take a fun trip down memory lane to share their own favorite (and sometimes embarrassing) Halloween memories.

Images & Show Notes: https://hailingfrequenciesopen.wordpress.com/?p=2556

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This week, we're joined by Dr. Trek himself — Larry Nemecek, the ultimate Star Trek insider, historian, and fan ambassador. Together, we explore the roads not taken on Star Trek: The Next Generation.

Larry shares stories from decades of exploring the Final Frontier, from his early Trek research to behind-the-scenes tales of fandom, production, and the evolving legacy of Gene Roddenberry's universe. Whether you know him from Portal 47, The Trek Files, or the Star Trek: Stellar Cartography map collection, Larry brings a wealth of knowledge and heart to every conversation.

Engage with us as we talk Trek past, present, and future with one of fandom's most beloved voices.

https://larrynemecek.com/

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Mike beams down with an Away Team report from the Trek to Orlando convention — sharing the best panels, cosplays, and Star Trek fan moments from the weekend. Then the crew looks back at the standout episodes, surprises, and unforgettable moments from Season 4 of Hailing Frequencies Open.

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From the Star Trek Adventure at Universal Studios to The Star Trek Experience in Las Vegas, the franchise has a long and fascinating history with theme parks. This week, Mike, Damian, and Lanita explore that legacy and chat with Matthew Jennings from Star Trek: Red Alert at Universal Studios Hollywood's Fan Fest Nights. Matthew shares what it's like to bring Trek to life for fans in person—and how Starfleet found its place among the thrill rides.

Mike Jone's Pitch for the theme park: https://hailingfrequenciesopen.wordpress.com/2025/10/07/pitch-mike-jones-star-trek-theme-park/

🎬 Check out Matthew's webseries https://www.youtube.com/@1701Blerd ☕ Support the podcast at https://ko-fi.com/hailingfreqopen